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Sovereignty, Religion, and Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs ) in Sudan, with a focus on the Nuba Mountains.

Creator

Marks, Madison, Department of History

Abstract/Description

This thesis addresses the causes and consequences of displacement in Sudan. By focusing on the themes of sovereignty and religion throughout Sudanese history, the complex challenges of the long-standing Sudanese conflict become apparent. This is clear through a focus on the Nuba Mountains. Colonial rule had a direct impact in shaping contrasting visions for the future of a sovereign Sudanese state. After Sudan's independence in 1956, the question over the fusion or separation of religion and... Show moreThis thesis addresses the causes and consequences of displacement in Sudan. By focusing on the themes of sovereignty and religion throughout Sudanese history, the complex challenges of the long-standing Sudanese conflict become apparent. This is clear through a focus on the Nuba Mountains. Colonial rule had a direct impact in shaping contrasting visions for the future of a sovereign Sudanese state. After Sudan's independence in 1956, the question over the fusion or separation of religion and state contributed to two devastating civil wars, resulting in the death of two million and displacement of four million. According to the concept of Sovereignty as Responsibility, a state's sovereignty depends upon its protection for the rights and wellbeing of its people. The Sudanese government has engaged in direct assaults against its own people, and has prevented humanitarian assessment missions and relief personnel from responding to affected populations. This model of regime-induced displacement has posed many questions regarding the best methods for protection of IDPs when their rights are being violated or threatened by their sovereign. This thesis also provides an analysis of the hopeful prospects for future protection of IDPs in Africa through increased regional accountability and placing the rights of the individual over the state. This thesis provides a framework for future conversations among international stakeholders, humanitarian aid organizations, civil society groups, academics, media personnel, and Sudanese to discuss the impacts of sovereignty and religion on displacement in Sudan. Moreover, this thesis seeks to fill a gap in research on the Nuba Mountains. Show less